Politics Unplugged (Full Episode) August 2, 2026

About 1.5 million ballots have been cast in Arizona so far, roughly half of the turnout expected this year. Political Editor Dennis Welch breaks down what the early-voting numbers reveal about the state’s electorate. A Democratic-leaning data analyst says Democrats are banking reliable voters and mobilizing first-time voters early. But many consistent Republican voters may still be holding onto their ballots, setting up the possibility of stronger Election Day turnout.

Hobbs’ recent fundraising emails say she is trailing Republican challenger Andy Biggs, but polls and campaign finance reports show otherwise.

Colton Shone sat down with Navajo Nation presidential candidate Justin Jones, discussing his outsider campaign, call for government reform, and vision for the tribe.

Marine veteran Justin Jones, a Navajo Nation presidential candidate, says his outsider status is an edge in ending corruption as voters head to the polls.

Rep. Andy Biggs and former Sen. Sine Kerr are preparing as Election Day rapidly approaches, discussing topics like the border, health care and data centers.

Governor Katie Hobbs and her running mate, former Republican Mesa Mayor John Giles, join Arizona's Family Politics Editor Dennis Welch to talk about their cross-aisle ticket. They discuss why Hobbs chose a Republican running mate and how they plan to govern together. They also share their thoughts on community concerns about data center expansion, conserving Arizona’s water, and keeping utility rates affordable across the state.